Buchtipp Juli 2023

Writing in English Studies -
A Guide for Students
in English Linguistics and Literature

Vivian Gramley, Katharina Pietsch, Tyll Zybura
1. Edition 2020 Verlag: Verlag Barbara Budrich, UTB, 164 pages
ISBN: 9783825253639
Available as an online download via the University Network

“Writing belongs to the writer.” (Koch 00:11) This is how Katharina Pietsch, one of the authors of “Writing in English Studies - A Guide for Students in English Linguistics and Literature” describes academic writing. A unique process specific to each and every author who is equipped with the agency to create their very own distinctive text.  Unfortunately, that is not always the case. As many students find themselves struggling to adapt to the many requirements, pitfalls and specificities the academic writing process taught at university entails. In order to address these issues and encourage students to think of themselves as writers, Vivian Gramley, Katharina Pietsch and Tyll Zybura have compiled this practical, accessible and easy-to-follow handbook.

What makes this particular book so unique is its deep appreciation for the students themselves. The authors not only incorporate excerpts from actual student papers, which help to exemplify some of the more technical aspects of the academic writing process in the fields of linguistics, literary studies and cultural studies, but also add their own perspective and writing experiences. This in particular supports the overall accessibility of the book as it gives the reader the impression of being part of the dialogue.

Another great feature of this book is how seriously it takes the students’ struggles. Where other handbooks dish out general and normative advice under the guise of “one size fits all”, this book tries to and succeeds to support the student with valid and personally informed tips and tricks. It reassures and motivates students in their own writing process and encourages them to find the approach that suits them best.

Overall this book is very much worth a read especially for but by no means limited to every student of British and American Studies, as it will most definitely aid you on your way to owning your writing process.

Reviewed by Lea Thelow, June 2023

Works cited:
Koch, Jessica, host. “UnTeach Podcast 03.”  Writing in English Studies, episode 3, Unconditional Teaching, 15 Juni 2020,
www.unconditional-teaching.com/index.php.